Formosa Oolong (#8)

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Oolong tea from Taiwan. Formosa, meaning 'beautiful' was what the Dutch explorers called this island. The oolong tea grown here continues to be called as such. The intense pungency and exquisite bouquet of Formosa Oolong tea is regarded to be the finest in the world. Our 'Oolong Symphony no. 8,' comprised of large 'choicest' grade copper-red leaves with beautiful tips of silver is a wonderful introduction to this variety.

Formosa, meaning 'beautiful island', is what Dutch traders called Taiwan. The teas grown here, mainly north of Taipei, continue to be called as such. Tea can be harvested up to six times a year here, although the high mountain teas may be only twice a year. Oolong tea had been a very important export for the island until the 1980's, when tea growers turned their focus to native oolong enthusiasts. Today, oolong tea is mainly produced for tea lovers in Taiwan, and the rarest, most prized lots are extremely difficult to find in the U.S. Tea culture is so alive and well in Taiwan, annual competitions are held amongst tea growing districts to reward the most outstanding oolongs each year. Gold medal winning oolongs are some of the most expensive in the world.